April 2023 Newsletter – CKM Clinic Updates
We hope that everyone is enjoying the emergence of Spring with the bulbs; blooms; and bright sunshine. With all those blooms, it is allergy season! Check out this resource (OAS Syndrome) that discusses the interplay with environmental pollens and foods. Also, when it comes to food, it can be challenging to figure out what is a true allergy and what is just an intolerance. Here is a great website from researchers at UBC to help you decide whether you need a referral to an allergist: www.allergycheck.ca.
CKM Clinic Updates:
As a reminder, as Drs. Fung and Wilson are temporarily sharing the space in Catalyst Kinetics Medical so we are a bit busier than usual! The waiting room has been reopened and the door is no longer locked, but masks and hand sanitizer are still required to enter the clinic. Dr.Ali’s MOA is located by the old entrance to the pharmacy.
Construction is still ongoing next door, we apologize in advance for any loud noises you may hear during your appointment.
We have updated our hours, please make sure to check the Clinic Hours section of this email to check them out!
Dr. Ali away April 24-28th and Dr. Guruge is providing coverage on April 25th and 27th.
CKM Staff Updates:
Herleen has been hired as an additional MOA for Dr.Ali. We are happy to have her join our team!
Herleen has a passion for biology, anatomy, zoology, and learning new languages. She has two small dogs and a lovebird who run her household. In her free time you can find her on a hike, crocheting, or playing video games. Heleen’s dream is to one day have a farm where she can create a safe haven for senior animals in need. She is motivated by providing quality assistance, and is looking forward to meeting all of Dr. Ali’s patients!
Amrita is a Neighbourhood Social Worker and works with Dr. Ali to see her patients in the community.
Amrita is a UBC alumni with a Bachelor of Arts and received her Social Work degree from UNBC. She is a Registered Social Worker within the Primary Care Network and her previous experience working within Fraser Health includes Acute Care and Long Term Care. As well she has worked for various non-profits ranging from legal advocacy to community ABI programs. Amrita enjoys the outdoors and loves to take her American Bully and husband on hikes!
Same Day Cancellations:
We do understand that sometimes situations arise resulting in you being unable to come to your scheduled appointment with Dr.Ali. Please let us know as soon as possible when you are unable to make it to an appointment.
In the case of an appointment no longer being required or extenuating circumstances such as illness, no late cancellation fee will apply.
In the case of not showing up to an appointment without a call or forgetting an appointment, a late cancellation/no show fee will apply.
Updated Clinic Hours and Contact Information:
We have altered our clinic hours to the following
Monday 10:00 am – 5:00pm (Lunch from 1:00-2:00)
Tuesday 9:00am – 1:00pm
Wednesday 9:30am – 1:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 3:00pm (Lunch from 12:00-1:00)
With Harleen joining the team, we are able to resume in-person appointments on Tuesdays.
The clinic will be closed for the following days:
April 10–Easter Monday
April 24-27 – Dr.Ali away (Dr. Guruge covering)
May 18–Dr. Ali away
May 22–Victoria Day
May 29-June 1–Dr. Ali away
Please ensure all prescription refills are requested prior to these dates. Pharmacies are usually able to offer emergency refills if you are unable to have an appointment with Dr.Ali and your prescription has run out. For emergencies over this time, please proceed to the emergency room or nearest walk-in clinic.
Emails and phone messages will be checked every few days–please DO NOT leave urgent messages since they may not be returned on the same day. Please ensure you are leaving voicemails for the reception team on the right line (extension #4), otherwise we won’t be able to retrieve your message.